Division of Labor and Industry

Become an Apprentice - Maryland Apprenticeship and Training Program

If you are willing
to commit to a hands-on training program and are excited about
starting a new career in the skilled trades, then an apprenticeship
may be the right opportunity for you.

Step 1: Research a Trade
The first step to becoming an apprentice is to research which occupation you would
like to pursue. Please visit Find an Apprenticeship
for a complete list of all occupations approved to have apprenticeship programs
and descriptions of what type of work is required in each trade. Under this
section you can also download a complete list of currently registered programs in Maryland.

Step 2: Apply
Once you have decided on a trade, contact program sponsors directly to inquire about
their individual application requirements and hiring schedule. Submit your
application(s) to the sponsor of your choice. Please be aware each sponsor has
individual application requirements and program requirements, so be sure to
research the program of your choice carefully.

Also note you may experience some delay in receiving a response to your application
because some sponsoring programs may hold your application until an opening in
the program is available. Ask the program of your choice when the apprenticeship
program will start and when you would likely hear back from them gaining a
realistic idea of their application process. Apprenticeships are also very
competitive so it may take more than one application to be accepted. Because
apprenticeships are industry driven, the hiring of apprentices is strictly done
on a need basis by the individual sponsor; the state government can not place
you in an apprenticeship program.

Step 3: Be Sure You Have Been Registered by Your Sponsor
Once you have been hired as an apprentice, an Apprentice Agreement will be completed
by you and your employer. This agreement is filled with Maryland Apprenticeship
and Training and the Federal Department of Labor. This agreement classifies you
as a registered apprentice; if you do not think you have signed an agreement
please ask your sponsor about the agreement to be sure it is completed.

To see what an Apprenticeship Agreement looks like please visit Publications.
Upon completing the apprenticeship program you will receive a nationally
recognized Certificate of Completion, allowing your skills to transfer anywhere
in the country.

Top 5 Benefits

Earn while you learn

Apprenticeships are jobs, you will have a job when your training is complete